Sharon Kay Penman

Sharon Kay Penman was an American historical novelist known for her detailed and well-researched novels set in medieval England and Wales. Her works include the acclaimed 'The Sunne in Splendour' and the 'Welsh Princes' trilogy.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. When Christ And His Saints Slept

    Set in the tumultuous 12th-century England, this historical novel delves into the chaotic period following the death of King Henry I, when his daughter Maude and nephew Stephen vie for the English crown. The narrative intricately weaves the personal and political struggles of these two rivals, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and ambition. As the kingdom is torn apart by civil war, the story vividly portrays the impact on both the nobility and common folk, capturing the essence of a nation in turmoil and the indomitable spirit of those who lived through it.

    The 17010th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. The Sunne In Splendour

    Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Wars of the Roses, this historical novel vividly reimagines the life of Richard III, exploring his journey from a loyal brother and skilled warrior to a controversial king. The narrative delves into the intricate web of political intrigue, familial loyalty, and betrayal that defined 15th-century England, offering a nuanced portrayal of Richard as a man shaped by both his ambitions and the turbulent times he lived in. Through richly detailed storytelling, the novel challenges the traditional villainous depiction of Richard, presenting him as a complex and multifaceted figure striving for justice and honor amidst the chaos of civil war.

    The 17010th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. Here Be Dragons

    Set against the backdrop of 13th-century England and Wales, this historical novel weaves a tale of love, loyalty, and political intrigue. The story follows the tumultuous relationship between Joanna, the illegitimate daughter of King John of England, and Llewelyn the Great, Prince of Gwynedd. As Joanna navigates her dual loyalties to her father and her husband, she becomes embroiled in the complex power struggles between the English crown and the Welsh princes. Rich in historical detail, the narrative explores themes of family, betrayal, and the quest for power, painting a vivid portrait of medieval life and the enduring human spirit.

    The 17010th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Falls The Shadow

    Set against the turbulent backdrop of 13th-century England and Wales, this historical novel intricately weaves the lives of Simon de Montfort and Llewelyn ap Gruffydd. As political tensions rise, Simon, a charismatic and principled nobleman, challenges the authority of King Henry III, advocating for reform and justice. Meanwhile, Llewelyn, the determined Prince of Wales, strives to unite his people and assert independence from English rule. Their intertwined destinies unfold amidst battles, betrayals, and shifting alliances, painting a vivid portrait of ambition, loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of power in a world teetering on the brink of change.

    The 17010th Greatest Book of All Time
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  5. 5. The Reckoning

    Set in the tumultuous 13th century, this historical novel weaves a tale of political intrigue, betrayal, and the relentless quest for power. It follows the life of Llewelyn ap Gruffydd, the last Prince of Wales, as he struggles to maintain his nation's independence against the encroaching English forces led by King Edward I. Amidst the backdrop of war and shifting alliances, the story delves into the personal sacrifices and heart-wrenching decisions faced by Llewelyn and those closest to him, painting a vivid picture of a land and its people on the brink of monumental change.

    The 17010th Greatest Book of All Time
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  6. 6. The Queen's Man

    A Medieval Mystery

    Set in the tumultuous backdrop of 12th-century England, the story follows Justin de Quincy, a young man of noble birth but illegitimate status, who becomes embroiled in a web of political intrigue and danger. After witnessing a brutal murder on the road to Winchester, Justin is thrust into a perilous mission by Eleanor of Aquitaine, the formidable queen mother. Tasked with uncovering the truth behind the murder and safeguarding the realm's secrets, Justin navigates a world of deceit, betrayal, and shifting allegiances, all while grappling with his own identity and loyalties. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he must rely on his wits and courage to survive the treacherous court politics and fulfill his duty to the crown.

  7. 7. Time And Chance

    The Story of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine

    Set in the tumultuous 12th century, this historical novel delves into the complex relationship between King Henry II of England and his once-trusted friend, Thomas Becket, who becomes the Archbishop of Canterbury. As political ambitions and personal loyalties clash, the story explores themes of power, betrayal, and the struggle between church and state. The narrative vividly captures the era's intricate political landscape, bringing to life the characters' internal conflicts and the dramatic events that lead to a tragic confrontation, ultimately altering the course of English history.

  8. 8. Prince Of Darkness

    A Novel of Medieval England

    Set in the tumultuous backdrop of 12th-century England, this historical novel weaves a tale of intrigue, betrayal, and political machinations. The story follows Justin de Quincy, a sharp-witted and resourceful young man, as he navigates the perilous world of royal courts and clandestine plots. Tasked with unraveling a murder mystery that threatens the stability of the realm, Justin finds himself entangled in a web of deceit involving powerful nobles and the enigmatic Eleanor of Aquitaine. As he delves deeper into the conspiracy, he must rely on his cunning and courage to uncover the truth and protect the kingdom from descending into chaos.

  9. 9. Cruel As The Grave

    Set in the medieval era, this gripping historical mystery follows Justin de Quincy, an astute and determined investigator, as he delves into the mysterious death of a young Welsh girl. Amidst the political intrigue and social tensions of 12th-century England, Justin navigates a web of deceit and danger, uncovering secrets that threaten to unravel the very fabric of the kingdom. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering sense of justice, he must piece together the clues to reveal the truth, all while contending with the complex dynamics of power and loyalty that surround him.

  10. 10. Dragon's Lair

    A Medieval Mystery

    Set in the turbulent times of 1193, this historical mystery follows the astute and resourceful Justin de Quincy as he is tasked with unraveling a complex web of deceit and treachery. Amidst the political intrigue of medieval England, Justin must navigate through a labyrinth of secrets to uncover the truth behind a series of murders linked to a missing treasure. With the backdrop of King Richard's imprisonment and Prince John's machinations, the narrative weaves a tale of loyalty, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of justice, all while capturing the essence of the era with vivid detail and rich character development.